Thermodynamics - compression of a gas in a piston-cylinder device

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the thermodynamic process of compressing an ideal gas in a piston-cylinder device, starting at 100 kPa and 300 K with an initial volume of 5 liters. The gas undergoes compression according to the relationship pV² = constant, ultimately reaching a final temperature of 400 K. It is clarified that the assumption of zero work due to the freely moving piston is incorrect; work must be calculated based on the pressure and volume changes during the process.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of ideal gas laws and properties
  • Familiarity with thermodynamic processes and equations
  • Knowledge of pressure-volume (p-V) diagrams
  • Basic principles of work in thermodynamics
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation and application of the equation pV² = constant
  • Learn how to calculate work done in thermodynamic processes
  • Explore the concept of isothermal and adiabatic processes in gases
  • Review examples of p-V diagrams for various thermodynamic cycles
USEFUL FOR

Students studying thermodynamics, engineers working with gas systems, and anyone interested in understanding the principles of gas compression in piston-cylinder devices.

roldy
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Homework Statement



An ideal gas initially at 100kPa and 300K is contained in a piston-cylinder device with an initial volume of 5 liters. The gas is then compressed slowly according to the relationship that pV^2=constant until a final temperature of 400K is reached. Sketch the process on a p-V diagram and find how much work is done in this process.

Homework Equations


pV^2=costant


The Attempt at a Solution



I'm not sure in my logic but since this is a freely moving piston-cylinder device, the work should be 0 which would result in a horizonatal line. Is this assumption correct?
 
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No. Review the definition of work as it pertains to pressure and volume changes.
 

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